What China’s carrier recruitment drive says about PLA Navy’s long-term ambitions

China's aircraft carrier program is entering a new phase, with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy implementing significant changes to its pilot recruitment and training. The goal is to enhance the capabilities of crews and pilots for operations far from Chinese shores, according to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

The navy is moving away from its previous reliance on experienced aviators transferring from operational squadrons. Instead, it is expanding recruitment through civilian universities and dedicated programs for high school graduates. Analysts describe this as a shift from a stopgap approach to establishing a permanent pipeline of qualified personnel.

This transformation became more evident in 2022 when the navy declared its transition from a "shore-based force" to a "ship-based force" was "basically completed." This was accompanied by the introduction of new recruitment and training programs specifically for carrier aviation.

The Fujian, China's newest carrier, is expected to operate a more advanced air wing than its predecessors, the Liaoning and Shandong. This includes the J-35 stealth fighter and the KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft. Such advanced aircraft require a deeper pool of specialized pilots, instructors, mechanics, and flight-deck crews, underscoring the importance of the navy's new recruitment strategy.